From Fishpond to Plate: The Rapid Journey of Live Fish from Zhongshan to Macao

In the early hours of the morning, Jerry, an Australian expatriate settled in Zhongshan, embarks on a fascinating journey that transcends beyond geographical boundaries. Here, at the largest fresh aquatic product production base for Macao, a live fish sets off from a fishpond in Zhongshan, China, making its way to a dining table in Macao—all within a remarkable time frame of just two hours. This journey serves not only as an impressive logistics achievement but also as a vivid representation of the robust collaboration among cities within the Greater Bay Area.

Historically, Zhongshan and Macao share roots tracing back to Xiangshan County. Presently, about 150,000 Zhongshan natives reside in Macao, contributing to its rich cultural and economic fabric. Long before Macao’s return to Chinese sovereignty, Zhongshan established itself as a pivotal supplier of agricultural products, thus laying the groundwork for ongoing commercial relationships. On December 20, 1999, the Chinese government reclaimed its sovereignty over Macao, marking the start of a new chapter filled with growth and cooperation.

On this particular day, Jerry’s mission involves following a fish on its journey from the serene waters of Zhongshan to the bustling dining scene in Macao. Located at the junction of saltwater and freshwater, Zhongshan is renowned for its bountiful aquatic resources, boasting an annual output value exceeding 9 billion yuan. Fresh aquatic products, notably sourced from Zhongshan, fulfill approximately 70% of Macao’s market demand, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can indulge in high-quality seafood.

The Zhongshan Shuichu Group, which operates the fishpond Jerry is observing, proudly provides an array of freshwater fish to Macao and Hong Kong. For nearly seven decades, this enterprise has specialized in exotic varieties, featuring the crispy grass carp, a local favorite, along with bighead carp and mud carp. With more than ten businesses supplying essential goods to Macao, the economic exchange between these regions stands testament to an entrenched partnership.

Since the reestablishment of Chinese sovereignty, Zhongshan Customs has played a vital role in overseeing the flow of goods, including around 400,000 live pigs, 105,000 tons of aquatic products, and 285,000 tons of fresh vegetables sent to Macao. This significant exchange underscores the mutual dependence between Zhongshan and Macao, illuminating a path towards enhanced regional cooperation.

Witnessing this process firsthand, Jerry reflects on the incredible interconnectedness of the Greater Bay Area cities and the lengths to which agricultural products like seafood can travel in such a short time. The logistical efficiency involved in transferring live fish to a dining table in Macao not only supports the local economy but also brings people closer, creating lasting ties fortified by trust and shared interests.

Ultimately, this captivating journey of a simple fish encapsulates the greater narrative of Zhongshan and Macao, highlighting a thriving relationship destined to evolve in the years to come. As observers of this unique voyage, we find ourselves looking forward to the myriad stories that will continue to unfold, bridging cultures and communities through the shared love of food and tradition.

Watch the Journey Here